Tax credits and maternity leave

[hackneyzoo]

I was hoping someone might be able to tell me if I have a leg to stand on in my argument with the tax credit people.

I was on maternity leave from Jan 2009 until July 2009. In Jan 2010 a tax credit adviser informed me that I was entitled to claim back £100 per week on tax for the duration of my maternity pay.

I have processed this claim though the tax credit office. They are happy to credit me for the tax year 2009-10 but for 2008-9 they say:

'Unfortunately the 31 July 2009 deadline for providing information for 2008-20099 has now passed and we have already finalised your 2008-9 tax credits award. We sent you a final decision notice on 6th July 2009 and the law does not allow us to change this.'

My point is that I did provide them with the information that I had had another child and was on maternity leave.... I am writing them a letter, does anyone know if I have a legal entitlement ot this money?

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Sorry to hear that but you wont be entitled!
Even though you told them you were on maternity leave it is up to you to provide your income figure for 08/09 with the £100 per week deducted. It doesnt happen automatically just because you told them you were on maternity leave.

It's definitely tough luck on this one. As Itsybitsy said, it's up to you to work out your income. You won't get anywhere.

Boo hiss.
Thanks Itsy and Fairycake! I shall know for next time

Right I'm afraid, though they are getting better, when I rang to give my salary fig for the last tax year and said I am on materntiy leave the adviser did say is that before you have deducted the 100 pounds per week or after. I was impressed!!